City Council approves panhandling ordinance

City Council unanimously toughened the city’s aggressive solicitation law on Thursday.

The changes kick in in 10 days and prohibit solicitation within 50 feet of ATMs, banks, parking garages, charitable contribution meters, parking meters/pay stations, bus stops, outdoor dining areas and marked crosswalks. Violators could face a $500 fine, and be charged with a class C misdemeanor.

Two weeks ago, Councilman Diego Bernal raised concerns over the definition of “solicit,” suggesting the code’s language be amended to just cover money, and not other “things of value.”

On Thursday, Bernal agreed to retract his request, because he said he felt confident police and the judicial system would use its best discretion while enforcing the law, being mindful that the law is intended to target “professional panhandlers” and not the homeless.

“If our goal is to weed out professional panhandlers, then we should do that,” Bernal said.

There was also talk of resurrecting a kind of food voucher program at Haven For Hope, which downtown residents could have on hand to give instead of money. Although anyone can go to the center’s Prospects Courtyard and receive a free meal.